Anti-Racist Testimonials
"I have had the pleasure of working with Kayla on various initiatives with New Jersey Theatre Alliance. She is a dynamic producer and team player. Her passion for advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in our field is admirable and is the reason I asked her to be on the advisory committee of the New Jersey Arts and Culture Administrators of Color network. I am confident that she will have a major impact on the arts and culture field in the both the near and distant future." - Deonté Griffin-Quick, Manager of Programs and Service at New Jersey Theatre Alliance
"Kayla is an inspiration. I've attended a number of her EDI lectures and have learned new perspectives each time. She has called attention to issues that I would not have considered if not for her seminars. I have become ten times more introspective after speaking with Kayla about being multi-identity. Encouraging, intelligent, and kind; Kayla is one of my favorite educators." – Gina Marie Rodriguez, Founder & Executive Director at Big Dreams & Silver Screens
“Kayla has truly changed life. Being ethnically Korean, only speaking English, growing up in the Bahamas, and carrying a US passport, I was very confused about who I was. It wasn’t until my 4 weeks at RSAC where I learned more about myself and my identity than any other experience I had ever had. Before I met Kayla, I had no understanding of what EDI was or what a mixed identity meant. Kayla was the key person who helped me understand it, embrace it, and use my voice to be proud of who I am and where I come from. I walked out of RSAC and out of the EDI classes ready to take on the world and felt so empowered. I feel like my eyes were opened because of her. She has inspired me to search deeper into myself and to find my truth as a young artist of mixed identity. What I have learned from Kayla goes beyond the realm of performing and the industry. She has been one of my biggest role models and will continue to be. I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from her.” – Catherine Kim, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla's lessons have changed my entire perspective on empathy, advocacy, and especially on how to have better conversations regarding important topics. Kayla is unendingly supportive of any social movements or advocacy that I seek her help on. Every time I call her for help, she provides the most incredible advice. At the Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory, Kayla's work with EDI changed my entire perspective on race, gender, and identity. She facilitated a challenging, engaging, and safe discussion on many sensitive topics, allowing for each student to walk away with something different. Kayla helped me so much in forming a social justice club at my high school, and also in our efforts to change our school's Native American mascot, revealing the most effective ways of creating change, while also building empathy and support. Most of all, Kayla introduced the idea of intersectionality to me, and helped me realize how intertwined social movements and struggles are. I truly believe if more advocates had the help of Kayla, the world would be an indescribably better place. Kayla also has an amazing way of making you feel heard and understood. Her support is that of a friend and a caring person. If anyone is seeking help on starting a social movement, making positive change, or even just trying to have a better conversation, I cannot recommend getting Kayla's help enough." – Sam Mulick, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla Kim Votapek has been one of the greatest and most inspiring teachers and mentors I could’ve asked for. As a teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory, Kayla broadened my knowledge of theatre operations and helped me understand the business side of the industry I’m entering. Often training programs for actors are solely focused on the craft of acting and leave out the business aspects of the industry, thus her breakdown of all the operational parts of the theatre has been extremely valuable. My biggest take away from her class, however, was her introduction to EDI (Equity Diversity Inclusion) advocacy. Through this class, she further opened my eyes to the institutional and industry barriers for nonwhite, cis-gendered, straight, men in theatre. She gave me an understanding of how to address these barriers and take a step towards change. I now feel more comfortable confronting these issues with the tools Kayla has provided. Being a multi-racial woman, this was extremely empowering. As a mentor, Kayla has shown me what true professionalism, passion, and versatility looks like. When I was struggling to decide what I wanted to study in college, she took the pressure off and reassured me that I could take my time in figuring it all out. When I was sure that I could only pursue one career, she told me that I didn’t have to limit my aspirations, that I could be more than just one thing. Kayla is a model of her own sage advice. She has multiple passions and excels at everything she does. After working with Kayla, I truly appreciate my time with her and am excited for anyone else who gets to work with her. I can positively say I am a better theatre artist and person because of her." - Talli Basile, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla Kim Votapek is an incredible EDI consultant and counselor. I took an EDI course instructed by Kayla. She provided extensive knowledge and context on how European and American history influence today’s society. She encourages artistic activism and offers advice on how artists can be advocates for social justice on stage, backstage, and throughout the entire theatrical process. Kayla operates and instructs from a place of knowledge, empathy, and most importantly action. Her expertise is much needed in our world that is currently navigating how to incorporate social justice.” - Rachelle Legrand, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student and Crossroads Intern
"Kayla Kim Votapek is one of the most kind and intelligent people I’ve had the pleasure of working with. I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in an EDI course at the Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory for the past two summers. Kayla led this class with such strong leadership. She made sure each person had a chance to voice their opinions and promoted an atmosphere of acceptance. I looked forward to each meeting because I knew I would have the chance to engage in an interesting conversation. Kayla has a warm vibe that you can’t help but feel comfortable around. I genuinely wouldn’t have wanted any other person to lead EDI. She truly cares about each and every person that she meets and does her absolute best to make sure everyone feels heard and understood. As someone who tends to go on and on about certain topics that I’m passionate about, I truly applaud Kayla for being patient with me and helping me be more patient with others. I can’t stress enough how influential she’s been for my life and my experience at RSAC.” – Gabriella Flotta, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“I can confidently say that Kayla is the most empathetic person I have ever met. Her lived experience is far beyond her years, with a social awareness and strong value system present in everything she does. As an educator, her willingness to push the limits of her students and expose them to new viewpoints has not only shaped how I personally perceive other people, but also how I perceive my journey as an individual. For me, Kayla has helped me to better understand my passions and guided me to find a career path that is right for me. Her ability to put things into perspective, access to her well of knowledge, and propensity to remain calm in crisis makes me proud to call Kayla a mentor of mine." - Christian Lamantia, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla Kim Votapek takes time both in and out of the classroom to lend her students honesty, kindness, advice, and wisdom. She has taught me so many valuable lessons in relation to EDI that I will never forget, and that I will use for the rest of my life. Spending time with Kayla makes you a more thoughtful and caring person. She makes the theater industry a more welcoming and inclusive place.” – Madeline Fox, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla is a compassionate and dedicated EDI educator who encourages brave spaces to discuss real topics which impact our world today. In the course I took with her, we not only discussed historical injustices in the United States (related to race, class and gender) but also how it this intersects in art too. She was dedicated to also understanding what we wanted to learn and talk about, making each classes unique interests a priority. She sent us several resources to us (both in and out of class) which proved to me the genuine care she has in others learning but more importantly, being able to extend that knowledge into something actionable. Kayla’s empathetic and proactive nature uplifts any space she is in.” -Nidia Tejada, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
"Kayla is an inspiration. I've attended a number of her EDI lectures and have learned new perspectives each time. She has called attention to issues that I would not have considered if not for her seminars. I have become ten times more introspective after speaking with Kayla about being multi-identity. Encouraging, intelligent, and kind; Kayla is one of my favorite educators." – Gina Marie Rodriguez, Founder & Executive Director at Big Dreams & Silver Screens
“Kayla has truly changed life. Being ethnically Korean, only speaking English, growing up in the Bahamas, and carrying a US passport, I was very confused about who I was. It wasn’t until my 4 weeks at RSAC where I learned more about myself and my identity than any other experience I had ever had. Before I met Kayla, I had no understanding of what EDI was or what a mixed identity meant. Kayla was the key person who helped me understand it, embrace it, and use my voice to be proud of who I am and where I come from. I walked out of RSAC and out of the EDI classes ready to take on the world and felt so empowered. I feel like my eyes were opened because of her. She has inspired me to search deeper into myself and to find my truth as a young artist of mixed identity. What I have learned from Kayla goes beyond the realm of performing and the industry. She has been one of my biggest role models and will continue to be. I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from her.” – Catherine Kim, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla's lessons have changed my entire perspective on empathy, advocacy, and especially on how to have better conversations regarding important topics. Kayla is unendingly supportive of any social movements or advocacy that I seek her help on. Every time I call her for help, she provides the most incredible advice. At the Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory, Kayla's work with EDI changed my entire perspective on race, gender, and identity. She facilitated a challenging, engaging, and safe discussion on many sensitive topics, allowing for each student to walk away with something different. Kayla helped me so much in forming a social justice club at my high school, and also in our efforts to change our school's Native American mascot, revealing the most effective ways of creating change, while also building empathy and support. Most of all, Kayla introduced the idea of intersectionality to me, and helped me realize how intertwined social movements and struggles are. I truly believe if more advocates had the help of Kayla, the world would be an indescribably better place. Kayla also has an amazing way of making you feel heard and understood. Her support is that of a friend and a caring person. If anyone is seeking help on starting a social movement, making positive change, or even just trying to have a better conversation, I cannot recommend getting Kayla's help enough." – Sam Mulick, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla Kim Votapek has been one of the greatest and most inspiring teachers and mentors I could’ve asked for. As a teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory, Kayla broadened my knowledge of theatre operations and helped me understand the business side of the industry I’m entering. Often training programs for actors are solely focused on the craft of acting and leave out the business aspects of the industry, thus her breakdown of all the operational parts of the theatre has been extremely valuable. My biggest take away from her class, however, was her introduction to EDI (Equity Diversity Inclusion) advocacy. Through this class, she further opened my eyes to the institutional and industry barriers for nonwhite, cis-gendered, straight, men in theatre. She gave me an understanding of how to address these barriers and take a step towards change. I now feel more comfortable confronting these issues with the tools Kayla has provided. Being a multi-racial woman, this was extremely empowering. As a mentor, Kayla has shown me what true professionalism, passion, and versatility looks like. When I was struggling to decide what I wanted to study in college, she took the pressure off and reassured me that I could take my time in figuring it all out. When I was sure that I could only pursue one career, she told me that I didn’t have to limit my aspirations, that I could be more than just one thing. Kayla is a model of her own sage advice. She has multiple passions and excels at everything she does. After working with Kayla, I truly appreciate my time with her and am excited for anyone else who gets to work with her. I can positively say I am a better theatre artist and person because of her." - Talli Basile, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla Kim Votapek is an incredible EDI consultant and counselor. I took an EDI course instructed by Kayla. She provided extensive knowledge and context on how European and American history influence today’s society. She encourages artistic activism and offers advice on how artists can be advocates for social justice on stage, backstage, and throughout the entire theatrical process. Kayla operates and instructs from a place of knowledge, empathy, and most importantly action. Her expertise is much needed in our world that is currently navigating how to incorporate social justice.” - Rachelle Legrand, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student and Crossroads Intern
"Kayla Kim Votapek is one of the most kind and intelligent people I’ve had the pleasure of working with. I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in an EDI course at the Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory for the past two summers. Kayla led this class with such strong leadership. She made sure each person had a chance to voice their opinions and promoted an atmosphere of acceptance. I looked forward to each meeting because I knew I would have the chance to engage in an interesting conversation. Kayla has a warm vibe that you can’t help but feel comfortable around. I genuinely wouldn’t have wanted any other person to lead EDI. She truly cares about each and every person that she meets and does her absolute best to make sure everyone feels heard and understood. As someone who tends to go on and on about certain topics that I’m passionate about, I truly applaud Kayla for being patient with me and helping me be more patient with others. I can’t stress enough how influential she’s been for my life and my experience at RSAC.” – Gabriella Flotta, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“I can confidently say that Kayla is the most empathetic person I have ever met. Her lived experience is far beyond her years, with a social awareness and strong value system present in everything she does. As an educator, her willingness to push the limits of her students and expose them to new viewpoints has not only shaped how I personally perceive other people, but also how I perceive my journey as an individual. For me, Kayla has helped me to better understand my passions and guided me to find a career path that is right for me. Her ability to put things into perspective, access to her well of knowledge, and propensity to remain calm in crisis makes me proud to call Kayla a mentor of mine." - Christian Lamantia, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla Kim Votapek takes time both in and out of the classroom to lend her students honesty, kindness, advice, and wisdom. She has taught me so many valuable lessons in relation to EDI that I will never forget, and that I will use for the rest of my life. Spending time with Kayla makes you a more thoughtful and caring person. She makes the theater industry a more welcoming and inclusive place.” – Madeline Fox, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
“Kayla is a compassionate and dedicated EDI educator who encourages brave spaces to discuss real topics which impact our world today. In the course I took with her, we not only discussed historical injustices in the United States (related to race, class and gender) but also how it this intersects in art too. She was dedicated to also understanding what we wanted to learn and talk about, making each classes unique interests a priority. She sent us several resources to us (both in and out of class) which proved to me the genuine care she has in others learning but more importantly, being able to extend that knowledge into something actionable. Kayla’s empathetic and proactive nature uplifts any space she is in.” -Nidia Tejada, Former Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory Student
Creative Producer Testimonials
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“Kayla is the epitome of a great leader. She is the employee that every business wants to hire, and every supervisor wants to be. She is organized, detail-orientated and confident in her decisions, but most of all she is empathetic. She has the ability to understand different personalities within a workplace and instills productiveness with all employees she encounters. She is professional but also understands the different roles an individual can possess. Although she is younger than myself, she is the person I want to be when I grow up. It was a privilege to work with Kayla, and I would not hesitant in accepting an opportunity to work with her again.” – Vianca Vazquez, Former Office Assistant at Crossroads Theatre Company
“I had the pleasure of working with Kayla on Crossroads Theatre Company's production of A Christmas Carol in the winter of 2019. I served as Choreographer of the show and Kayla was our Associate Producer. Kayla was the glue that held us together; she made sure that everyone had the support they needed, acting as the bridge between cast, crew, creative, presenting house, and the board of the company. There was nothing she couldn't do or fix! Each one of us turned to Kayla when we needed support because we knew we could trust her and that she truly cared about the experience of each individual person involved. Kayla's warmth and kindness were a beautiful complement to her disciplined work ethic, structured organization, and drive. She is someone who is solutions-driven, knowing how to put out fires, make quick decisions, have tough conversations, and quite frankly, making sure everyone has what they need to make the production happen. In my opinion, Kayla's work behind the scenes makes her the unsung hero and the true star of the show. It was a pleasure working with her, and I felt her support of me as Choreographer from day one when she helped me navigate some union contract red tape for a dancer I desperately wanted to cast, quickly negotiating a win that was equitable for us all. She was an excellent producer to work with, and I am so grateful she was on our team. I know with confidence that Kayla will continue her magic for years to come. “ – Camille Moten, Choreographer of A Christmas Carol at Crossroads Theatre Company
"Kayla possesses great leadership prowess. I have observed her in many positions at both RSAC and Crossroads Theatre Company and I find her to be an enthusiastic leader who motivates students and interns to be responsible and dedicated team players. She builds report with her sense of compassion and empathy yet inspires respect. She has an innate ability to guide with grace during challenges yet always provide solutions. Kayla is a quick thinker, very focused and driven with a great creative flare and she does it all with a positive attitude." – Chantal Jean-Pierre, Actress & Acting Teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory
“I first met Kayla at Crossroads Theater Company. It was the company's inaugural show and the season opener in the brand new multi-million-dollar facility in the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC). I found Kayla to be not only very professional but very personable. As one could imagine the buildup to such a large event could lend itself to problems foreseen and unseen. Kayla was always there to meet every single challenge with ease and enthusiasm. Her joy is infectious and makes any work environment better. Her solutions-based approach to everything makes the impossible absolutely possible. Kayla is an unstoppable, hardworking force for good. She embodies all of the best things in the theater community and I look forward to the next time that we can work together.” - Nathaniel Stampley, Actor
I had the pleasure of meeting Kayla through the Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory. Every year I've worked with Kayla I've constantly been in awe of how she perfectly orchestrates all the moving parts of an intensive pre-college theater conservatory whilst supporting the individual needs of over 50+ high school students, plus the staff and faculty. She does everything to make sure that everyone is heard and seen. Kayla is a natural born leader and collaborator. She inspires those around her, myself included. Something I've always respected about Kayla is her ability to be professional and still personal with those she works with. She wears both hats effortlessly. I have never been afraid to come to Kayla for anything; knowing that she will always be honest, fair, and compassionate when solving something or relaying information. Kayla is someone I have the utmost respect for and anyone would be lucky to work with her. – Lindsay Andreanszky, Movement Teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory
"I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Kayla when she was the Associate Producer at Crossroads Theatre Company. Being a Japanese woman, it was incredibly impactful to see Kayla holding a position of importance and power within the creative team. So few times have I seen people like myself represented behind the table of production teams and in audition rooms. Kayla is incredibly dedicated and has the drive and work ethic to make anything possible. Kayla is very organized and able to multi-task with ease. She can manage a team on all fronts, going above and beyond what is asked of her. Kayla truly cared about all of our needs and the work being produced, but most of all valued everyone as a human." – Justine Rappaport, Actress
“Kayla and I worked together at Crossroads Theatre Company as Producers and Event Managers. Working with Kayla is working at the intersection of creativity, compassion, experience, and a good heart. She gives 110% to her work and relationships with folks around her. She is bright, collaborative, and passionate about making a positive and impactful change to the world around us through her work with EDI and the arts. Highly recommended! She's amazing.” - Amie Bajalieh, Stage Manger & Former Associate Producer at Crossroads Theatre Company
“The role of producer is ALL encompassing - and as a producer of a new adaptation of a large cast musical - more hurdles can appear than anticipated. The importance of a producer on-board who LOVES and appreciates the creative process while juggling the business challenges is immeasurable. In short - Kayla can be trusted to manage your project and take good care of your people. Very few can gracefully wear so many hats, and even fewer are as much of a joy and blessing to work with.” - Lianne Marie Dobbs, Actress
“Kayla is an incredible leader and teacher. When I interned at Crossroads through the DIAL program, I always felt well guided and supported and that didn't end with my internship. Getting to work with someone so understanding and willing to take the time to really work with you was so inspiring and helpful. Kayla also really embodies the ideas of EDI and never once made me or any of the other interns feel like we didn't have a place there. In just one summer I learned more from Kayla than in my other 3 internships combined!” –Melody Marshall, Former Crossroads Theatre Company's Intern
“I first met Kayla while working together at Crossroads Theatre Company, and was completely impressed with the commitment and passion Kayla puts into her work. She is not only one of the most genuine people that I have had the pleasure to work with, but one of the most kind- hearted and genuine people that I have ever met. Kayla is the person on the team that truly wants to create the very best work she possibly can, and will do whatever it takes to make that happen. Whether it be sewing costumes, building sets, advocating for actors, dealing with administrative issues, or anything in-between, Kayla is the girl for you!” - James Smiley, Actor
"I worked on a challenging production of Sophisticated Ladies. My saving grace was Kayla who assisted the producer. It was her professionalism that kept the actors focused on what we were there to accomplish. She is a people person who understands the needs of the individual and has a way of making everyone feel seen, validated and heard, which in an ensemble setting can be difficult at best. I wouldn’t think twice in regard to working with Kayla in the future and would relish the opportunity.” – Kenneth Ard, Actor
"I had the pleasure of working with Kayla with Crossroads Theatre Company as well as the Rutgers Acting Conservatory. I always admired her work ethic and focus, even when things may not have gone perfectly. She was a pleasure to work with and her passion and drive are contagious! I look forward to working with her again. 10/10 would recommend!" – Jeanel LeBlanc, Assistant Director of A Christmas Carol at Crossroads Theatre Company and Singing Teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory
“Kayla is a person who plans, organizes, and gets things DONE! She will listen to you actively, meet you where you are, and give you a few pushes when you need them. If you want to work with someone who cares about you, your needs, and your goals, reach out to Kayla!” – Amanda Canny, Production Assistant on A Christmas Carol at Crossroads Theatre Company
“Kayla is one of the most caring, organized, and professional individuals to whom I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She is a very rare type of leader to encounter; she welcomes responsibility, exemplifies grace under pressure, and above all encourages and motivates all those she comes in contact with. When I showed interest in becoming involved with Cabaret Theatre while Kayla held the Producer position, she welcomed me into the company with open arms as she encouraged, affirmed, and provided me with the leadership I needed to be successful in my endeavors. One exemplary trait that Kayla possesses is her exceptional ability to manage her time without compromising the quality of her outstanding work. Her role as Producer in Cabaret Theatre held many responsibilities; she managed numerous large groups of students under her, foresaw all stages of every production that took place (often multiple at a time), and many other duties, in additional to being a full-time student at Rutgers University. Not only was she able to complete all these tasks successfully, but she also inspired me and many others with the professional, skillful, and goal-oriented manner in which she handled each responsibility individually. Kayla is an incredible leader, motivator, and all-around great individual to work with, and without a doubt she receives my highest recommendation” – TJ Ellis, Technical Project Manager at Simon & Schuster
“I was struggling to work out how to move forward with my career, and so I was in need of a business plan. Kayla worked with me to draw up a business plan, and with her expertise, the process was made much easier. She broke the plan down into manageable sections, allowing me to take stepping stones in my career rather than looking at it like a huge daunting monstrosity. This has made it much easier to progress in my career.” – Stephen Fletcher, Founder & Producer at TheFree Reign Productions in Manchester, UK
“Kayla was so refreshing to work with, she walked me through the development of my business plan in a more digestible way than I was accustomed to and it helped open my mind to a new way of analyzing my life and my future plans in a streamlined and organized fashion. At the end of our time working together, I left feeling confident about the plan that we established together. Her calm nature allowed me to not get overwhelmed and to keep my cool throughout the entire process.” – Jessica Asfar, Founder of Asfar Designs
“I had the pleasure of working with Kayla on Crossroads Theatre Company's production of A Christmas Carol in the winter of 2019. I served as Choreographer of the show and Kayla was our Associate Producer. Kayla was the glue that held us together; she made sure that everyone had the support they needed, acting as the bridge between cast, crew, creative, presenting house, and the board of the company. There was nothing she couldn't do or fix! Each one of us turned to Kayla when we needed support because we knew we could trust her and that she truly cared about the experience of each individual person involved. Kayla's warmth and kindness were a beautiful complement to her disciplined work ethic, structured organization, and drive. She is someone who is solutions-driven, knowing how to put out fires, make quick decisions, have tough conversations, and quite frankly, making sure everyone has what they need to make the production happen. In my opinion, Kayla's work behind the scenes makes her the unsung hero and the true star of the show. It was a pleasure working with her, and I felt her support of me as Choreographer from day one when she helped me navigate some union contract red tape for a dancer I desperately wanted to cast, quickly negotiating a win that was equitable for us all. She was an excellent producer to work with, and I am so grateful she was on our team. I know with confidence that Kayla will continue her magic for years to come. “ – Camille Moten, Choreographer of A Christmas Carol at Crossroads Theatre Company
"Kayla possesses great leadership prowess. I have observed her in many positions at both RSAC and Crossroads Theatre Company and I find her to be an enthusiastic leader who motivates students and interns to be responsible and dedicated team players. She builds report with her sense of compassion and empathy yet inspires respect. She has an innate ability to guide with grace during challenges yet always provide solutions. Kayla is a quick thinker, very focused and driven with a great creative flare and she does it all with a positive attitude." – Chantal Jean-Pierre, Actress & Acting Teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory
“I first met Kayla at Crossroads Theater Company. It was the company's inaugural show and the season opener in the brand new multi-million-dollar facility in the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC). I found Kayla to be not only very professional but very personable. As one could imagine the buildup to such a large event could lend itself to problems foreseen and unseen. Kayla was always there to meet every single challenge with ease and enthusiasm. Her joy is infectious and makes any work environment better. Her solutions-based approach to everything makes the impossible absolutely possible. Kayla is an unstoppable, hardworking force for good. She embodies all of the best things in the theater community and I look forward to the next time that we can work together.” - Nathaniel Stampley, Actor
I had the pleasure of meeting Kayla through the Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory. Every year I've worked with Kayla I've constantly been in awe of how she perfectly orchestrates all the moving parts of an intensive pre-college theater conservatory whilst supporting the individual needs of over 50+ high school students, plus the staff and faculty. She does everything to make sure that everyone is heard and seen. Kayla is a natural born leader and collaborator. She inspires those around her, myself included. Something I've always respected about Kayla is her ability to be professional and still personal with those she works with. She wears both hats effortlessly. I have never been afraid to come to Kayla for anything; knowing that she will always be honest, fair, and compassionate when solving something or relaying information. Kayla is someone I have the utmost respect for and anyone would be lucky to work with her. – Lindsay Andreanszky, Movement Teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory
"I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Kayla when she was the Associate Producer at Crossroads Theatre Company. Being a Japanese woman, it was incredibly impactful to see Kayla holding a position of importance and power within the creative team. So few times have I seen people like myself represented behind the table of production teams and in audition rooms. Kayla is incredibly dedicated and has the drive and work ethic to make anything possible. Kayla is very organized and able to multi-task with ease. She can manage a team on all fronts, going above and beyond what is asked of her. Kayla truly cared about all of our needs and the work being produced, but most of all valued everyone as a human." – Justine Rappaport, Actress
“Kayla and I worked together at Crossroads Theatre Company as Producers and Event Managers. Working with Kayla is working at the intersection of creativity, compassion, experience, and a good heart. She gives 110% to her work and relationships with folks around her. She is bright, collaborative, and passionate about making a positive and impactful change to the world around us through her work with EDI and the arts. Highly recommended! She's amazing.” - Amie Bajalieh, Stage Manger & Former Associate Producer at Crossroads Theatre Company
“The role of producer is ALL encompassing - and as a producer of a new adaptation of a large cast musical - more hurdles can appear than anticipated. The importance of a producer on-board who LOVES and appreciates the creative process while juggling the business challenges is immeasurable. In short - Kayla can be trusted to manage your project and take good care of your people. Very few can gracefully wear so many hats, and even fewer are as much of a joy and blessing to work with.” - Lianne Marie Dobbs, Actress
“Kayla is an incredible leader and teacher. When I interned at Crossroads through the DIAL program, I always felt well guided and supported and that didn't end with my internship. Getting to work with someone so understanding and willing to take the time to really work with you was so inspiring and helpful. Kayla also really embodies the ideas of EDI and never once made me or any of the other interns feel like we didn't have a place there. In just one summer I learned more from Kayla than in my other 3 internships combined!” –Melody Marshall, Former Crossroads Theatre Company's Intern
“I first met Kayla while working together at Crossroads Theatre Company, and was completely impressed with the commitment and passion Kayla puts into her work. She is not only one of the most genuine people that I have had the pleasure to work with, but one of the most kind- hearted and genuine people that I have ever met. Kayla is the person on the team that truly wants to create the very best work she possibly can, and will do whatever it takes to make that happen. Whether it be sewing costumes, building sets, advocating for actors, dealing with administrative issues, or anything in-between, Kayla is the girl for you!” - James Smiley, Actor
"I worked on a challenging production of Sophisticated Ladies. My saving grace was Kayla who assisted the producer. It was her professionalism that kept the actors focused on what we were there to accomplish. She is a people person who understands the needs of the individual and has a way of making everyone feel seen, validated and heard, which in an ensemble setting can be difficult at best. I wouldn’t think twice in regard to working with Kayla in the future and would relish the opportunity.” – Kenneth Ard, Actor
"I had the pleasure of working with Kayla with Crossroads Theatre Company as well as the Rutgers Acting Conservatory. I always admired her work ethic and focus, even when things may not have gone perfectly. She was a pleasure to work with and her passion and drive are contagious! I look forward to working with her again. 10/10 would recommend!" – Jeanel LeBlanc, Assistant Director of A Christmas Carol at Crossroads Theatre Company and Singing Teacher at Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory
“Kayla is a person who plans, organizes, and gets things DONE! She will listen to you actively, meet you where you are, and give you a few pushes when you need them. If you want to work with someone who cares about you, your needs, and your goals, reach out to Kayla!” – Amanda Canny, Production Assistant on A Christmas Carol at Crossroads Theatre Company
“Kayla is one of the most caring, organized, and professional individuals to whom I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She is a very rare type of leader to encounter; she welcomes responsibility, exemplifies grace under pressure, and above all encourages and motivates all those she comes in contact with. When I showed interest in becoming involved with Cabaret Theatre while Kayla held the Producer position, she welcomed me into the company with open arms as she encouraged, affirmed, and provided me with the leadership I needed to be successful in my endeavors. One exemplary trait that Kayla possesses is her exceptional ability to manage her time without compromising the quality of her outstanding work. Her role as Producer in Cabaret Theatre held many responsibilities; she managed numerous large groups of students under her, foresaw all stages of every production that took place (often multiple at a time), and many other duties, in additional to being a full-time student at Rutgers University. Not only was she able to complete all these tasks successfully, but she also inspired me and many others with the professional, skillful, and goal-oriented manner in which she handled each responsibility individually. Kayla is an incredible leader, motivator, and all-around great individual to work with, and without a doubt she receives my highest recommendation” – TJ Ellis, Technical Project Manager at Simon & Schuster
“I was struggling to work out how to move forward with my career, and so I was in need of a business plan. Kayla worked with me to draw up a business plan, and with her expertise, the process was made much easier. She broke the plan down into manageable sections, allowing me to take stepping stones in my career rather than looking at it like a huge daunting monstrosity. This has made it much easier to progress in my career.” – Stephen Fletcher, Founder & Producer at TheFree Reign Productions in Manchester, UK
“Kayla was so refreshing to work with, she walked me through the development of my business plan in a more digestible way than I was accustomed to and it helped open my mind to a new way of analyzing my life and my future plans in a streamlined and organized fashion. At the end of our time working together, I left feeling confident about the plan that we established together. Her calm nature allowed me to not get overwhelmed and to keep my cool throughout the entire process.” – Jessica Asfar, Founder of Asfar Designs
©2020 by Kayla Kim Votapek